India has introduced its first vertical lift railway bridge, the New Pamban Bridge, connecting the mainland to Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu. This advanced structure replaces the iconic 105-year-old Pamban Bridge, which was decommissioned due to corrosion. Built with cutting-edge technology, the 2.05 km-long bridge has been constructed at a cost of Rs 535 crore.
Designed for speed and safety, it features a fully automated vertical lift span with 22 meters of air clearance above sea level, ensuring smooth passage for ships. It supports double tracks, electrification, and faster trains, offering a modernized rail experience. The bridge marks a significant upgrade in infrastructure, promising efficiency and innovation to meet the needs of the next century. Final safety inspections are underway before its grand opening.